181. San Jose Earthquakes Midfielder Niko Tsakiris

Urban Pitch Podcast - The Beautiful Game of Life

At just 19 years old, Niko Tsakiris already has a wealth of experience both for club and country. He made his first team debut with the San Jose Earthquakes as a homegrown player at just 16, and has since blossomed into a key player for the club. For the United States, Tsakiris has featured for the United States youth national team in multiple tournaments, including the 2023 U-20 World Cup, and 2024 U-20 CONCACAF Championships, where he won the Golden Ball.

He stops by the Urban Pitch Podcast to discuss his international experience, making his pro debut at such a young age, and his thoughts on Bruce Arena joining the Earthquakes as head coach and sporting director.

(01:18) Growing up in San Jose and rising up the ranks with his hometown club
(07:21) His academy experience and the future of youth development in the U.S.
(13:30) Making his first team debut
(19:58) Thoughts on Bruce Arena joining the Earthquakes as head coach and sporting director
(22:18) Locker room dynamic and playing with leaders like Jeremy Ebobisse
(25:23) Winning the golden ball at the 2024 U-20 CONCACAF championship
(28:13) The atmosphere at youth international tournaments
(32:00) His education process and getting his high school diploma
(37:02) Offseason goals
(43:04) What's on Niko's playlist

Cast

Hosts: Ramsey Abushahla, Julio Monterroza, & Brigitte Flores

Producer: Roy Cho

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